‘It’s back to School of Practical Philosophy time!’

     
An abbot gathered together his students and asked them “How do we know the exact moment when night ends and day begins?”

“It’s when, standing some way away, you can tell a sheep from a dog,” said one boy. The Abbot was not content with the answer. Another student said “No, it’s when, standing some way away, you can tell an olive tree from a fig tree.”

“No, that’s not a good definition either.”

“Well, what’s the right answer?” asked the boys.

“When a stranger approaches,” said the abbot, “and we think he is our brother, that is the moment when night ends and day begins.”

- Unknown


If there is one extra-Masonic activity I recommend above all others, it is an education in the School of Practical Philosophy. Its curriculum complements Masonic teachings in ways that will make you recall significant stretches of ritual, and, since it is practical philosophy, you will gain an understanding of how to apply the teachings to your daily life.

September is only a few weeks away, so it is back to school time. Here’s what’s going on. From the publicity:

Fall Open House

Wednesday, September 4

7 to 8:15 p.m.

School of Practical Philosophy

12 East 79th Street

Thursday, September 5

7 to 8:15 p.m.

West Side YMCA

5 West 63rd Street

Knowledge of one’s true self can be life changing. Come join us at the School of Practical Philosophy for an open conversation about the process of realizing the truth about one’s self, and how it might bring each of us sustainable happiness. Ask questions about the School, find out about the classes offered, and discover how generations of students have benefited from the discovery of their own innate wisdom through the study of Practical Philosophy.

Light refreshments will be served.

RSVP here.


Or, if you prefer to go to school directly, it’s easy to register for the 10-week introductory semester. The cost is only $90 for the term. Classes are held five days a week, in mornings and evenings, and at the same two locations to make it convenient.

Click here.

Okay, okay, so you are not in or near New York City and you want to experience what the School offers. There is an on-line opportunity.

Click here.


There are other ways to enjoy the School of Practical Philosophy. It offers study sessions built around particular themes, such as the upcoming (and sold out) Ralph Waldo Emerson group. There also are single events, either lectures or all-day studies devoted to different philosophers, teachings, and writings. One last Summer Stories night is scheduled for August 27, and Plato Day returns on October 13. Great stuff.